/internal/media/dispatcher/1343489/resize%25253Aformat%25253DthumbnailThe False Ikkyū Preaching to the Bill Collectors1843–47 (Tenpō 14–Kōka 4)Utagawa KuniyoshiJōshūya KinzōVertical ōban triptych; 36.9 x 75.3 cm (14 1/2 x 29 5/8 in.)Woodblock print (nishiki-e); ink and color on paperWilliam Sturgis Bigelow Collection11.36499a-c0MFA impressions: 11.28882-4, 11.36499a-c, 11.39576a-c
The text explains that once when the famous Zen priest Ikkyū was away from home, bill collectors came for the money that was owed to them. Ikkyū's disciple Hakuzōzu told them that he himself was Ikkyū. Assisted by an otokodate called Nozarashi Gosuke, he delivered a stirring sermon on heaven and hell. The bill collectors were so moved that they crossed out the debts listed in their acount books and offered their own money and possessions to the priest instead.Prints36.700000000036.700000000036.900000000036.900000000046117301